Richard “Dick” Frank Lawyer, age 80, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Pennsylvania Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Dick was born in Johnson City, NY and was raised in Binghamton, NY. He was the son of the late Marie (Espy) and Ronald Lawyer. He graduated from Chenango Valley High School. Dick went on to graduate from Houghton College (now Houghton University) in Houghton, New York. He also attended Eastern Baptist Seminary (now Palmer Seminary) in Philadelphia from 1968 to 1970.
Dick dedicated most of his professional life to journalism and broadcasting. He was employed by The Associated Press as the Pennsylvania Broadcast Editor from 1972 until 2014, serving with distinction for more than four decades. He also spent a brief period as News Director for the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) from 1970 to 1972.
A committed Christian leader, he served as Chairman of the Board for SALT Leadership, an organization that passionately trains pastors and church leaders across Europe, Africa, and South America. His faith, leadership, and dedication to ministry have had a lasting impact on many lives.
Dick is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years Linda (Booth); his daughters, Judy Krepps (Matthew), Karen Nesslage (Keith), and Gretchen Esquilin (Jose); and his half-brother, James Kennelly. He was also the proud grandfather to Judy’s children, Alexa Bolton, Donovan Bush, Kayla Bush, and Bryson Bush; Karen’s children, Brendan Lovelace (Samantha Reitz), Chandler Denver (Michael); Gretchen’s children, Savannah Esquilin, Jose Esquilin III, Isaac Esquilin, and Jeanette Esquilin and was just as proud of his great-grandchildren, Ava Lovelace, Waylon Denver, and Wyatt Denver. Dick was preceded in death by his sister, Bonnie Frank.
A visitation will be held at Brandywine Valley Church, 7 Mt. Lebanon Road, Wilmington, DE 19803 on May 27, from 10 – 11 am, followed by a memorial service at 11 am. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to SALT Leadership, Inc., P.O. Box 8112, Wilmington, DE 19803,www.saltleadership.org/donateor Brandywine Valley Church, https://brandywine.church/give/
Richard will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his devotion to family, and his lifelong commitment to truth, service, and Christian leadership.
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
